Radio Frequency Denervation

Radio frequency denervation uses a heated probe to deactivate the nerves around a painful part of your spine.
The bones in your spine have joints between them that allow you to bend and flex. Spongy discs between the individual bones help with movement and stop the bones rubbing against each other as you move. Nerves carry messages from the joints in your spine up to your brain.

If you’re getting back pain because of a damaged joint or disc in your spine, radio frequency denervation can be used to deactivate the nerves that carry the pain signals to your brain.

The procedure usually takes around 45 minutes. You’ll lie on your front under an X-ray machine. Using the X-ray for guidance, the doctor will put a hollow needle into your back. You’ll be given an injection of anesthetic to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel any pain.

A thin metal probe is then threaded through the needle towards the joint that’s causing your pain. The probe is heated to destroy the nerves around the joint.